Yali

Yali is a mythical creature seen in many Hindu temples, often sculpted onto pillars. It is portrayed in different ways, as part lion, part elephant, part horse, or similar shapes. It is sometimes described as part lion and part griffin, with bird-like features. The Yali is a commonly found motif in Indian art, used mostly in South Indian sculptures. 

The piece is an old find from Tamil Nadu, and would have most likely been placed in the centre of a 'Prabhavali', which is the arch surrounding an idol. The collectible is mounted on a wooden base with the help of a rod.